Realizing just how challenging it will be to try and slow down a top-notch running back like Nick DePhillips and control the Ridgers’ potent offense, the Cougars’ first-year head mentor was already focused on what awaits his now 1-3 squad.

"DePhillips is one tough kid and a great back, and Glen Ridge (2-1) is a solid football team," said Ramer. "In the course of a season, it’s always on to the next game for the coaching staff right away and for the players on Monday, but we’re also savoring the taste of victory that I think is very important for our kids."

After all, MKA, which has struggled to a 13-41 mark since 2003, is coming off a resounding 38-7 triumph over Newark Academy (0-4) during last Saturday’s contest in Montclair.

It wasn’t Don Bosco Prep versus St. Joseph of Montvale last Saturday, but for rebuilding, small, private school football programs such as MKA and NA, it’s more a matter of trying to compete with the best in the Group 1 Colonial Hills Conference.

Plus, Ramer realizes that it’s always a continuous process toward seeking respectability and improvement, and victories - as few as they might be - must

be savored before the next step is taken.

"Our kids have worked so hard and they deserve a chance to enjoy our victory over Newark Academy," said Ramer. "But, we also know there are many more challenges ahead of us, including getting ready for this Saturday’s game with Glen Ridge.

"We fully realize this is a continuous process, but we’re in it for the long haul.

"We dress 44 kids right now, and we have a full seven-game schedule for our freshmen/sophomore team. That’s all part of what you have to do in building a football program, and we can see that all the kids are getting better each and every week."

MKA was led against NA by its senior co-captains, quarterback Frankie Mayer (9-of-14 for 252 yards, 3 touchdowns, no interceptions, 39-yard TD run) and running back John Meyer (12 carries for 96 yards rushing and 1 TD).

"Frankie had an outstanding all-around day leading our team out there, and he showed tremendous decision-making at quarterback," Ramer said. "John is a solid two-way player for us at running back and linebacker, and his all-around play is always a big lift for everyone out there."

Junior running back Charles Lawson (2 receptions for 86 yards and 2 TDs) and junior wide receiver Pat Livesey (3 catches for 126 yards and a TD) were outstanding as well, providing the reliable receiving corps to complete the Mayer-directed aerial arsenal.

MKA built a 17-7 halftime lead against NA as junior kicker Joe Mallock booted a 39-yard field goal to get things going. The Cougars followed with a two-yard TD run by Meyer to give the Cougars an early 10-0 first-quarter lead.

Livesey, a tall (6-foot-3) and very capable receiver, combined with Mayer on a 75-yard TD pass play in the second quarter, and MKA was well on its way.

One of MKA’s top prospects, freshman tight end and defensive end Patrick Karole, also shined against NA, blocking well, receiving with proficiency when needed (two catches for 26 yards) and defending with strength. Karole is emerging as one of the Colonial Hills Conference’s top young ends to watch.

"Karole is the type of kid you can build a program around," Ramer said. "We have a bunch of good, young players, and he’s out there helping to lead that talented group."

The MKA offensive line, including Karole at tight end, freshman Greg Froelich at left tackle, junior Nick Della Penna at left guard, sophomore Mike DeVita at center, junior Jerome Froelich (Greg’s older brother) at right guard and senior Danny Sweeney at right tackle, enjoyed an overall solid day against NA.

"The continued progress of our O-line has allowed us to mix things up a little more offensively with more of a ‘flex’ look, and try some different things with Frankie at the controls," said Ramer. "You have to keep taking steps each week, and this group is definitely doing that."